Johnny Cecotto replaces Marco Sorensen at Carlin

Carlin have announced that Johnny Cecotto will join their GP2 squad at Silverstone this weekend in place of Marco Sorensen.

Cecotto, who is a multiple GP2 race winner, will join the British team at their home event after Sorensen announced he will no longer compete in GP2 this year as he wants to concentrate on his GT career.

The Venezuelan began the year with Hilmer Motorsport – who missed the opening round due to financial struggles – in Spain and Monaco before he was replaced by Simon Trummer in Austria.

This will be the first time Cecotto has been a part of the Carlin squad but he is relishing the chance to join the team at Silverstone.

“I’m really excited to be back in the GP2 car especially with a team with such a history in motor racing,” said Cecotto.

“After a few years of being quite close to working together, it’s great to finally race together with Carlin.

“I love Silverstone, I’ve had several podiums there so it’s great to be going back.”

Team boss Trevor Carlin is looking forward to Cecotto joining the team but reflected on his sadness at the departure of Sorensen.

“We’re very sad to see Marco leave us at such an early stage before he had the chance to fulfil his potential with us,” said Carlin.

“We fully understand the decision to now focus on his GT Racing activities. He’s a very likeable guy and we wish he lots of the luck for the future.

“At such short notice we wanted a driver who could jump in and be confident in the current GP2 car and was capable of delivering a good result.

“I’m looking forward to seeing Julian and Johnny work together this weekend.”